- Hua Hin for Cancers during Songkran/Beach wedding in Hua Hin/Nakhon Hua Hin Run/Thailand’s population shrinks/E-cigarette users in Thailand rise/Monkey mayhem in Bangkok
- THE IRAN WAR: Trump pushes back Iran strikesMinister Freezes Prices/Baht may fall further/Fuel shock hits Thailand/Cabinet Approves Oil Relief Plan/Koh Samui and Koh Pha Ngan ferry fares increase/Boat Operators in Bangkok to Increase Fares/Island transport operators feel fuel pinch/Businesses feel the pinch/Retailers feel pinch/Thai fishery close to shutdown/Cathay to increase fuel surcharge/Health ministry to limit some treatments/The other Pandora’s box from the war
- ECONOMY: To ease cost of living/Thai hospital boom to continue/Bangkok International Motor Show/Thai vehicle sales fall/Thailand’s vehicle production increases
- TOURISM: Shorter visa-free stays and repeat tourists/Thailand Leads Chinese Tourism Surge/Thai New Year surge in flights/Thailand vows to host first Disneyland
- THAILAND EXPERIENCE: Bangkok food tour/Ayutthaya to stage grand Songkran festival
- CLIMATE THAILAND: Huawei and Solar Rooftop Requirements/Greener Course for Phuket’s Property Market/Thailand Post to electrify fleet/Bangkok joins Earth Hour
- HUA HIN TRANSPORT and LINKS
Check your sign: Hua Hin best place for Cancers during Songkran
If you’re stuck on where to go this Songkran in the Land of Smiles, consider consulting the cosmos. Explained here is a slightly cosmic, very opinionated guide to where you should travel in Thailand this Songkran, based on your zodiac sign. Think personality traits, travel styles, and the kind of chaos (or calm) each sign secretly thrives in.
Cancers, you don’t just travel, you travel with intention. Wellness retreats, slow mornings, and spaces that actually make you feel something? That’s your sweet spot. Hua Hin, with its laid-back coastal charm and unhurried pace, is exactly the kind of escape you’ll gravitate towards this Songkran. Continued …
A beach wedding in Hua Hin
Anique Buddhdev and Shamil Patel began planning their wedding with a clear set of conditions: warm weather, open skies, and enough room for several days of celebration. With no fixed destination, they considered Tuscany, Santorini, Cyprus, and Mexico before choosing Hua Hin for their wedding in Thailand.
The beaches, food and range of spaces at the Avani+ Hotel made the decision. “We wanted the wedding to feel like an experience,” they say, “not just a ceremony, but several days where everyone could celebrate together.” Continued …
Nakhon Hua Hin Run 2026 in Khao Tao on Sunday
The “Nakhon Hua Hin Run 2026” event in Hua Hin will take place on Sunday at the Khao Tao Reservoir area.
The event will feature several race categories, including a VIP category for distinguished guests and heads of government agencies over a distance of 3 km, and general categories for men and women covering distances of 5 km and 10.5 km. Continued …
Thailand’s population shrinks to 65.8 million, plus 1 million foreigners
Thailand’s population fell to 65.8 million in 2025, according to the Department of Provincial Administration, which also revealed that Bangkok remains by far the country’s most populous area.
In an announcement issued by the Central Registration Office yesterday, the total population as of Dec. 31, 2025, stood at 65.80 million. Of this, 64,820,708 are Thai nationals, while 988,620 are non-Thai residents. Continued …
E-cigarette users in Thailand rise 11-fold in three years despite ban
A network of e-cigarette users has urged Thailand’s new government to review the country’s e-cigarette ban, citing official data showing use has risen sharply despite more than a decade of prohibition.
The group cited figures from the National Statistical Office, saying the number of e-cigarette users increased from 78,742 in 2021 to about 900,000 in 2024, an increase of more than 11 times in three years, despite e-cigarettes remaining illegal throughout that period. Continued …
Monkey mayhem forces Bangkok to act
Bangkok authorities are stepping up efforts to tackle ongoing problems caused by macaque monkeys in Bang Khun Thian, as residents continue to report damage to property and disruptions to daily life.
Currently, around 350 macaques are spread across three main areas, including the Khun Kala Monument, Soi Thian Thale 22 community, and a nearby housing project. The animals, which are protected under Thai wildlife law, have increasingly come into conflict with residents — raiding homes, damaging property, and creating safety concerns. Continued …
Trump pushes back Iran strikes deadline
US President Donald Trump yesterday pushed back his deadline for strikes on Iran’s energy assets to April 6, saying it was at Tehran’s request and that talks were “going very well.”
Trump denied earlier that he was desperate for a deal to end the Middle East war, despite the Islamic republic’s cool response to an American peace plan. Continued …
Commerce Minister Freezes Prices on Key Goods in Thailand
The Thai Commerce Ministry will freeze prices on essential consumer goods like canned fish, instant noodles, and milk. This decision follows a cabinet meeting concerning the economic effects of the Middle East conflict.
Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun emphasized that manufacturers must obtain approval for price hikes on these products, aiming to control consumer costs while maintaining economic stability. The ministry plans to expand the price-freeze list to include palm oil, tissues, shampoo, detergent, and soap. Currently, 59 products are price-controlled; seven additional products, such as plastic pellets and bottled water, will join this list to ensure critical supply chain components remain affordable. Continued …
Baht may fall further on oil price exposure
A historic surge in oil prices is exposing the fragility of import-dependent Thailand, compounding pressure on an already weakening currency and raising the risk of capital flight, analysts say.
The baht has dropped more than 5% this month, the worst performance among Asian peers. Strategists at Kasikornbank see it weakening a further 2% from its current level of 32.80 per dollar by midyear, with rising energy import costs and seasonal dividend repatriation likely to weigh on the currency. Continued …
Cabinet races to cut oil tax as fuel shock hits Thailand
The Cabinet has approved a set of urgent measures to tackle the escalating energy crisis, including exploring legal avenues to reduce fuel excise taxes following a sharp 6-baht-per-liter increase in oil prices.
The special Cabinet meeting yesterday came as the government moved away from its previous gradual pricing approach, instead implementing an immediate increase due to mounting pressures, including the deepening deficit of the Oil Fuel Fund, fuel shortages, and illegal cross-border smuggling. Continued …
Thailand Cabinet Approves Oil Relief Plan Nationwide
Thailand’s special cabinet has approved in principle a seven-step relief package to ease the impact of rising fuel prices, with measures targeting households, businesses, and key industries. The decision includes potential tax cuts, financial support for vulnerable groups, and sector-specific assistance.
Officials say the plan is designed to deliver immediate relief amid surging global oil costs. Permanent Secretary for Finance Lavaron Sangsnit said the measures are urgent and intended to provide maximum public benefit. The move follows sharp increases in global oil prices, which have placed growing pressure on domestic fuel costs and the wider economy. Continued …
Koh Samui and Koh Pha Ngan ferry fares increase after fuel price jump
Travelers heading to Koh Samui and Koh Pha Ngan now face higher ferry fares after a sharp hike in fuel prices across Thailand prompted a ferry operator in Surat Thani province to raise ticket prices.
Seatran Ferry, which operates services between Don Sak Pier in the mainland of Surat Thani and the two islands, first announced a fare adjustment on March 14. At that time, prices rose by 10 baht. Continued …
Boat Operators in Bangkok to Increase Fares Due to Rise in Diesel Prices
Passenger boat operators on Bangkok’s Saen Saep Canal and Chao Phraya River will raise fares by two baht next Monday due to an 18% increase in diesel prices. This decision impacts the transportation cost for daily commuters on these crucial waterway routes.
Recently, the diesel price jumped from 33 baht to 39 baht per liter, prompting the fare hike. Krob Krua Khonsong Co., which operates on the Saen Saep Canal, announced the fare will increase from 11-21 baht to 13-23 baht based on distance. Chao Phraya Express Boat Co. will also adjust fares from 14-33 baht to 16-35 baht for routes extending from Nonthaburi to Bangkok’s inner city. Continued …
Tourist island transport operators feel fuel pinch
Tourism operators on Thai resort islands are bracing for the effects of the sudden sharp increase in fuel prices yesterday.
A survey on Koh Chang in the eastern province of Trat found that pump prices on the island are about three baht higher than on the mainland, with gasoline surging to 52.39 baht per liter. Diesel now costs 18% more than it did a day ago, while increases for other fuels range from 14% to 22%. Continued …
Businesses start to feel the pinch
Business operators across Thailand have cried foul over the sudden spike in diesel and fuel prices, saying the surge has intensified already mounting cost pressures and is forcing some to consider price hikes or cutbacks.
In Chiang Mai, Thanit Chumsaeng, president of the provincial restaurant and entertainment association, said operators are beginning to feel the full impact of rising energy prices driven by ongoing global tensions. Continued …
Retailers feel pinch as fuel prices spike
A fuel shortage and a recent surge in prices have caused logistics chaos for provincial retail and wholesale operators, sparking concerns it will reduce foot traffic during the upcoming Songkran festival in April.
Sing Buri province is facing fuel shortages, causing company trucks to queue at petrol stations to refuel, said Showsiri Treechairasmee, business development director at CS Park Co., operator of Chaisaeng Superstore in Sing Buri. Continued …
Fuel shock pushes Thai fishery close to shutdown
A surge in diesel prices triggered by the US-Israeli war on Iran is pushing Thailand’s multibillion-dollar fishing industry toward a standstill, with fishermen warning that their boats could be idled within days unless the government steps in.
At the country’s largest fishing port in Samut Sakhon province on the Gulf of Thailand, over half of the fishing trawlers are already docked and those still operating would likely stop work within days, said Jumpol Kanawaree, president of the Samut Sakhon Fishmongers Assn. Continued …
Cathay to increase fuel surcharge for all flights by 34%
Hong Kong flag carrier Cathay Pacific Airways will increase its fuel surcharge for all flights by 34% from April – the second increase in two weeks – citing “considerable pressure” as the conflict in the Middle East impacts oil prices.
The airline said yesterday the fuel surcharge for long-haul flights would increase by HK$396 (US$50.63) to HK1,560, or 34% from the current HK1,164. The measure takes effect on Wednesday of next week. Continued …
Health ministry to limit some treatments, control meds
The Ministry of Public Health plans to limit certain treatments, expand telemedicine, and tighten pharmaceutical management to cope with mounting resource pressures, as the Middle East war threatens global medical supply chains, permanent secretary Dr. Somruek Chungsaman said.
The war is expected to drive up the cost of drugs and medical supplies, prompting changes to treatment protocols and closer monitoring of pharmaceutical stocks. Continued …
Beware of the other Pandora’s box from the war against Iran
Both antisemitism and Islamophobia are spreading across the West as the escalation of conflict in the Middle East — triggered by the US and Israeli strikes against Iran — enters its second month this weekend.
Monitoring groups have reported sharp spikes in hate crimes, vandalism, and online incitement immediately following the outbreak of hostilities in late February. The most visible incident in the United Kingdom was this week’s arson attack on four Jewish volunteer ambulances in North London. A group with alleged links to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard has claimed responsibility. Continued …
Initiative aims to ease cost of living
The Thai Retailers Assn. (TRA) has partnered with the Commerce Ministry to advance the “Thai Chuay Thai” initiative to ease the cost of living. The campaign offers more than 5,000 essential consumer products, particularly high-quality house brands and second-tier brands, at affordable prices through retail channels nationwide.
The TRA also proposed a structured three-phase framework to systematically manage cost-of-living pressures, and is expanding retail channels that accept state welfare cards to improve accessibility for cardholders. Continued …
Thai hospital boom set to continue despite conflict
Though patients from the Middle East are shrinking as a result of war, analysts are upbeat about prospects for Thai hospitals this year, as the country has emerged as a medical and wellness hub and is transitioning into a “super-aged” society.
Parin Kitchatornpitak, an analyst at KGI Securities (Thailand), said the US-Israel war with Iran will weigh on sentiment in the healthcare sector, given the exposure to revenue from Middle Eastern patients at Thai hospitals such as Bumrungrad Hospital (BH), Bangkok Dusit Medical Services (BDMS), and Bangkok Chain Hospital (BCH). Continued …
Bangkok International Motor Show in pictures
The latest Global Energy Crisis (Version 7.3) made the opening of the 2026 Bangkok International Motor Show (BIMS) more important than it might have been just a few weeks ago. Spiking petrol pump prices act directly on the hip-pocket nerve and as the world’s car manufacturers formed up to face 2,000,000 showgoers on Wednesday morning, the mood of the exhibitors was remarkably upbeat.
Last year, 1.6 million people visited the show, purchasing 80,000 vehicles while they were there. This year, just how many visitors get to the show may be influenced by the aforementioned mobility crisis, but those who do make it can be expected to be highly motivated to buy electric vehicles as the gas pumps are running dry. The concept of refuelling your car at home at a fraction of the cost of petrol is suddenly very appealing. Continued …
Thai vehicle sales fall 2% in February
Thailand’s new vehicle market declined by just over 2% to 48,242 units in February, from 49,313 units a year earlier, according to the latest data released by the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), due mainly to a sharp fall in battery electric vehicle (BEV) sales following the expiration of the government’s EV3.0 incentive program at the end of last year.
This was the first year-on-year decline for the Thai vehicle market in almost a year and followed a strong surge in January, when automakers continued to deliver BEVs purchased before the expiration of the EV3.0 programme, which has now been replaced by the EV3.5 program, which offers lower incentives. Continued …
Thailand’s vehicle production increases in February amid electric vehicle surge
Thailand’s automotive sector recorded steady growth in February, supported by rising electric vehicle (EV) production and continued export activity, according to Xinhua News Agency. Total vehicle output reached 117,952 units, marking a 3.4% increase year-on-year.
The expansion was largely fueled by higher production of pickup trucks for the domestic market and passenger cars destined for export. A key driver of growth was the rapid expansion of electric mobility. Output of fully electric passenger vehicles surged by 53.7% compared to the same period last year. Continued …
Shorter visa-free stays could drive away Thailand’s repeat tourists
Thailand’s decision to reduce visa-free stays has been framed by authorities as a minor adjustment unlikely to disrupt the tourism sector. Officials argue that only 6–8 million visitors might choose alternative destinations — a small fraction of the millions who flock to the kingdom each year.
But scratch beneath the surface, and the move exposes Thailand’s reliance on outdated assumptions about tourism, money, and crime. Many long-term visitors and repeat travelers come to the same Thai destinations year after year, spending significantly on accommodation, food, shopping, and entertainment. These are high-value tourists who form the backbone of the economy in beach towns like Pattaya, Phuket, and Hua Hin. Forcing shorter stays risks discouraging this loyal segment, nudging them toward competitor countries in Southeast Asia that actively court longer-term visitors with welcoming policies. Continued …
Thailand Leads Chinese Tourism Surge Across Southeast Asia
Southeast Asia is experiencing a sharp rise in Chinese tourism in early 2026, with Thailand, Singapore, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos reporting increased visitor numbers. The surge has boosted regional economies, increased flight demand and reinforced the region’s role as a global travel hub.
Thailand is leading the trend, recording more than one million Chinese visitors in just the first two months of the year. The growth follows the easing of travel restrictions and the introduction of visa-friendly policies across the region. Thailand reported 6.62 million foreign visitors between January and February 2026, generating 160 billion baht in revenue, with China its largest source market. Continued …
Thai New Year to see surge in flights
Aeronautical Radio of Thailand (Aerothai) has forecast a surge in air travel during the Songkran holiday, with more than 25,000 flights expected nationwide during April 10–19.
Aerothai’s acting president Surachai Nuprom announced yesterday that 25,620 flights are anticipated, averaging about 2,562 per day. This represents a 1.8% increase compared to the same period last year. Continued …
Thailand vows to host first Disneyland in region
The government remains committed to bringing the first Disneyland theme park to Southeast Asia as part of the EEC Capital City project, with potential investors from the Middle East already indicating interest in becoming partners.
Caretaker deputy prime minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said mass traffic to the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), which should accelerate development of the long-delayed high-speed railway linking three regional airports, mega-projects in the area such as EEC Capital City are necessary. Continued …
Bangkok food tour: Michelin street eats to luxury rooftop dining
Embark on a delicious adventure through Bangkok’s vibrant food scene. From famous street food at Jodd Fairs Market to budget-friendly plates at Bib Gourmand favorites like Je-Oh and Polo Fried Chicken, this comprehensive food tour uncovers both classic Thai flavors and modern cuisine.
Enjoy mouthwatering Tom Yum, Pad Thai, crispy pork, and indulgent fine dining experiences at Michelin-starred Yu Ting Yuan and stunning rooftop bars. Discover where to eat in Bangkok, from bustling food markets to luxury restaurants, perfect for every taste and budget. Video …
Ayutthaya to stage grand Songkran festival with floats, sacred rites, and elephants
Ayutthaya is preparing to hold its Maha Songkran Krung Kao 2026 celebrations on a grand scale, under the theme “Maha Songkran Krung Kao: Water, Faith and the Heritage of the Land”, as the province aims to attract tourists and stimulate the local economy.
Yesterday, organizers staged a preview of the festivities, including a tuk-tuk parade, Buddha image bathing rituals, the traditional Rod Nam Dam Hua ceremony to pay respect to elders, cultural performances, and Songkran water-play activities with elephants. Continued …
Huawei the Only Brand Meeting New Solar Rooftop Requirements
The government is accelerating the adoption of clean energy through new measures that support the installation of rooftop solar. The initiative offers tax incentives to help reduce electricity costs for businesses and households.
The program will be effective from March 3 to December 31, 2028. The tax support scheme for solar installations is divided into two main categories: Continued …
British Developer Charts a Greener Course for Phuket’s Booming Property Market
Anthony Bygraves MSyI, chief executive of the London-founded sustainable property developer The Zero, has set out an ambitious vision for the future of eco-conscious living on Thailand’s most celebrated island.
Yesterday, Bygraves outlined plans for two landmark residential developments in Phuket that, he argued, are perfectly positioned to capture the wave of international capital now flowing into the Thai property market. Continued …
Thailand Post to electrify fleet of trucks and motorcycles
To conserve fuel, Thailand Post is converting its current fuel-powered fleet of last-mile delivery vehicles to electric trucks and motorcycles. Rising fuel prices have prompted the logistics provider to reduce its operational costs, a third of which goes to petrol.
Prior to this decision, Thailand Post had been using some EVs for delivery. Ten percent of its current fleet of delivery pick-ups are electric and another 100 motorcycles are electric, as well. Due to the ongoing global energy crisis, the organization has now decided to accelerate its transition toward electrification. Continued …
Bangkok joins Earth Hour 2026 with one-hour lights-out tomorrow
Bangkok Gov. Chadchart Sittipunt has invited residents and organizations across the capital to switch off non-essential lights for one hour tomorrow as part of the “60+ Earth Hour 2026” campaign to cut energy use and help tackle global warming.
Chadchart said the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is working with network partners to continue the annual Earth Hour drive. He called on government agencies, private sector organizations, businesses, and the public to reduce energy consumption by turning off unnecessary lighting for one hour, such as decorative lights, building and high-rise lighting, advertising signs, and household lights. Continued …
Hua Hin Links and Transport
Calendar of events/Airport schedule/Bangkok airport bus schedule/Hua Hin-Pattaya bus schedule/Air pollution index map/90-day online report/driver’s license/Market Village and Bluport cinemas/Emergency numbers
Commerce officials have stepped up Cha Am fresh market price checks as part of efforts to ensure vendors clearly display prices and to prevent consumers from being overcharged.
For many people, a fall may seem like a minor accident. But for older adults, a single fall can be life-changing — especially if it results in a hip fracture, one of the most serious and common injuries among older adults. Without proper treatment, a broken hip can lead to long-term disability, loss of independence, the need for ongoing care, and a significant decline in quality of life.
Thailand’s personal income tax filing deadline is April 8, and many expats remain uncertain about whether they must submit a return this year. Since clarification of the rules surrounding foreign income, confusion has persisted. Having little or no tax to pay is not the same as having no obligation to file.
A Thai billionaire, Worawat Narknawdee, is being sought by police following complaints from over 30 Thai investors. They claim to have been deceived into cryptocurrency investments, resulting in losses estimated at around B1.3 billion.
The US-Israel-Iran conflict, now in its 11th day, is set to hammer Thailand’s economy despite being fought 7,000 kilometers away. With the Strait of Hormuz closed and oil above US$120 per barrel, Thailand faces its sharpest energy and trade disruption in decades.
The Middle East conflict has unsettled global oil markets and disrupted shipping routes, posing risks for energy-dependent Thailand. After experiencing prolonged low inflation, the country now faces a potential inflation rebound driven by rising oil and freight costs.
RealWatch Lab, the research and data analytics unit of Real Smart Public Co/, has disclosed the findings of a survey on the concerns of Thai netizens regarding the Iran war. The survey collected opinions from Feb. 28, after the attacks started, to March 10, across all social media platforms, covering 34,009 messages discussing concerns arising from the conflict.
Banks are urging prospective homebuyers to make purchasing decisions within the first half of the year before costs rise further, amid concerns that inflation could increase under wartime conditions.
The war in the Middle East, which has caused oil prices to fluctuate and remain high, has led the government to continue capping diesel at no more than B30 per liter. As of March 11, the Oil Fuel Fund was subsidizing diesel by B16.97 per liter, a sharp increase from just B0.74 per liter on Feb. 27, one day before the United States and Israel attacked Iran.
The United States has announced investigations under Section 301 into 16 key trading partners, including Thailand, as part of an effort to rebuild tariff pressure after the Trump administration’s earlier duties were struck down by the US Supreme Court.
Thai hospitality leaders are doubling down on 2026 expansion plans, committing billions in capital expenditure to navigate a tightening global travel market. Despite a projected 32.9 million foreign arrivals in 2025, the industry faces headwinds from prolonged conflict in the Middle East, which threatens to dampen high-spending “long-haul” traffic from Europe and the Americas.
Phuket has long stood as one of Asia’s most celebrated destinations. Framed by the Andaman Sea, its turquoise waters, rich cultural fabric, and globally recognized hospitality have attracted millions of visitors for decades.
Do you think gender equality is still an issue in Thailand? Whether the answer is yes or no, explaining why can be surprisingly difficult.
The sun had yet to rise at 6 am, but Sarayuth Sonlacksa was already crouched on his wooden jetty, hoisting up plastic crates of crabs from his pond to see if any had reached the size needed to sell to restaurants in Bangkok.
Police have launched “Operation PANDORA”, targeting foreign fugitives and illegal residents suspected of links to international organized crime networks. The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) arrested three Swedish nationals believed to be connected to a major online drug trafficking platform operating on the darknet.
The Thai premium smartphone market has entered a high-stakes season following the official debut of the Samsung Galaxy S26 on Feb. 26. With a starting price of 41,900 baht, the flagship’s arrival has set a new benchmark for the high-end segment this year, closely followed by the March 2 launch of the iPad Air M4, which entered the market at 21,900 baht and iPhone 17e, which entered the market at 22,900 baht.
Cheap Thai meals at risk as global oil tensions threaten food prices
The Ministry of Transport has ordered a cap on public transport fares as tensions in the Middle East threaten to drive up global energy prices, warning operators not to raise rates beyond legal limits.
Emirates and Etihad Airways were resuming limited flight schedules to key global cities from their United Arab Emirates hubs yesterday, though the ongoing threat of missile fire piled pressure on airlines as they scramble to accommodate travelers.
It has been six days since the deadly joint attack by the United States and Israel on Iran, followed by Iran’s retaliatory strikes against mostly American targets in half a dozen Gulf states and against Israel, as people around the world grapple with the economic and geopolitical repercussions.
Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI), in cooperation with the Chinese Embassy in Thailand and partners from the public and private sectors, hosted the “Thailand-China Investment Forum: Keys to Success & Sustainable Growth for Chinese Enterprises” on Thursday at the Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok.
In hospitality circles, there’s been a lot of chatter about the next big trend in luxury travel, from personalized itineraries to yacht cruises. For Thailand, the answer is simple: Healing, through both gastronomy and wellness.
The Global Wellness Summit (GWS), a gathering of leaders in the global wellness economy, has announced that its 20th annual conference will take place in Phuket from Nov. 10-13. The event,which will be the largest Global Wellness Summit to date, will convene CEOs of leading wellness companies, physicians and academics, investors, technology innovators, and policymakers for four days examining the forces transforming all eleven sectors of the wellness economy, from wellness tourism and physical activity to mental wellness, beauty, spas, and wellness real estate, with a lens on the evolving longevity landscape.
Hat Yai is back in business, and now is the time to visit
Thailand’s top 5 getaways this March
Thailand’s low-carbon rice model emerges from Central Plains farmers
US President Donald Trump said y esterday Cuba was next on his agenda after Iran, predicting that the communist-run island, crippled by a US energy blockade, is “gonna fall pretty soon”. “They want to make a deal so badly,” Trump said, a day after suggesting that he would turn to an unspecified project for Cuba after the war against Iran. 
Four years ago, NASA purposely smashed a spacecraft into a small asteroid to see if they could deflect it – a test to prove humanity could protect Earth from threatening space rocks. The experiment pushed the moonlet asteroid Dimorphos into a smaller, faster route around its sibling Didymos – and according to new research out yesterday, it also pushed the pair into a slightly different orbit around the Sun. 
Foreign residents in Hua Hin who own property through Thai-registered companies using nominee shareholders are being urged to review their legal position as enforcement intensifies across Thailand.
Thai massage industry set for overhaul
Foreign media cited a report by Iranian International yesterday saying Iran’s Assembly of Experts has chosen Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, as Iran’s new supreme leader, ending days of speculation after his father was killed in Israeli and US strikes on Saturday. However, Mojtaba’s selection could raise questions because the Islamic Republic of Iran has often criticized hereditary rule and portrayed its system as fairer.
Fighting in the Middle East, which began on Feb. 28, when the United States and Israel attacked Iran, has escalated into Iranian strikes on US bases in several countries and an Iranian announcement to close the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for transporting oil and natural gas from major producing sources such as Qatar, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia.
As in 2022 when Russia invaded Ukraine, the new war in the Middle East is exposing once again how far Europe and others lag in replacing imported fossil fuels with domestic solar and wind power, specialists say.
The price of flights between Asia and Europe has soared after the closure of key Middle Eastern hubs due to the U.S.-Israel war against Iran, with airline websites showing tickets on many popular routes booked out for days. 
The immigration queue certainly takes the edge off the excitement of a new adventure into the world’s most visited city. This time, I threw some dollars at the problem. The result? It was just 30 minutes from the plane reaching the gate to me sitting in a taxi heading into the city. On my previous visit, the immigration queue alone took 70 minutes.
The Cha Am crab festival will take place from March 1-21 at the Cha Am Beach viewpoint, celebrating the town’s well-known blue swimming crab and its coastal food culture.
PTT Exploration and Production (PTTEP) has increased natural gas extraction in the Gulf of Thailand to its maximum possible levels to safeguard national energy security. The move comes in response to potential global energy supply disruptions caused by instability in the Middle East.
Thailand’s state-owned Export-Import Bank (EXIM Bank) has triggered an emergency rescue package for domestic businesses caught in the crossfire of the escalating Middle East conflict. The bank has moved to freeze debt repayments for up to a year and slash interest rates as the regional crisis begins to choke vital shipping lanes.
Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas convened an urgent meeting yesterday with Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun. Joined by Thailand’s ambassador in Washington and private-sector representatives, the meeting aimed to set a national strategy in response to the United States’ new tariff policy and trade-restricting measures.
Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok will open its new 24-hour Automated Border Control (ABC) passport gates for departures on Thursday, to reduce queues for the convenience of passengers. The opening follows a trial period in mid-February when the gates were available only from 7 am to 7 pm.
Two key renewable energy projects pushed by the caretaker government of Anutin Charnvirakul need to be delayed until a new government is formed, says energy Permanent Secretary Veerapat Kiatfuengfoo.
Hua Hin 4th for Chinese tourists/PROUD posts record revenue/Centara Hua Hin owner sets growth target/Red Cross urges urgent blood donations/Repair of Bangkok sinkhole/Coconut Crisis: Prices Crash
Centara Hua Hin owner sets robust growth target
Danucha Pichayanan, secretary-general of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), delivered a keynote address titled “Thailand’s Sustainomy Context: Capturing New Growth and Mitigating Unprecedented Risks” at the Future Ready 2026 event yesterday. 
A working group of the European Association for Business and Commerce (EABC) has expressed strong interest in supporting Thailand’s expanding logistics and rail sectors, citing the country’s 2,400-kilometer double-track railway network as a key driver of lower regional transport costs and stronger supply-chain efficiency.
The MotoGP 2026 season has officially kicked off with the PT Grand Prix of Thailand at Chang International Circ uit in Buriram through March 1. Fans gathered to witness the season’s first race featuring the world’s top riders.
Explore Thailand’s 9 UNESCO Creative Cities
A Thai holiday used to be easy to stereotype: a family trip at Songkran, a beach weekend when the heat bites, a once-a-year splurge overseas. But AirAsia MOVE’s latest behavioral data suggests Thailand’s travelers are now split into three distinct camps — each with its own rhythm, priorities, and idea of what counts as “worth it”.
Pakistan and Afghanistan exchanged cross-border attacks overnight in a dramatic escalation of tensions that led Pakistan’s defense minister to say yesterday that the two countries are in a state of “open war.” 
Thailand Riviera road construction boosted
The Thai Meteorological Department has issued a warning for today, announcing a “stormy day” in Thailand. The northern and northeastern regions will be the hardest hit, with heavy rainfall expected in 40% of these areas.
Canine distemper caused the deaths of 72 tigers at two animal parks in Chiang Mai earlier this month, not avian influenza, and there was no transmission to humans, it was announced yesterday.
The statistics of the kingdom have shown for 10 months inflation results lower than the experts’ statistical forecasts (these being on average negative for the whole of 2025 with -0.13% annual average, according to Thanavath Phonvichai, president of the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce and chairman of the Economic and Trade Forecast Center .
The Thai automotive industry has kickstarted the “Year of the Horse” with a 53.8% surge in year-on-year sales for January. The growth was primarily propeled by a record-breaking influx of electric vehicle (EV) deliveries, though the heavy-duty pickup sector continues to flounder amid tightening credit conditions.
Thailand’s car exports fell in January, dropping 6% year-on-year to 58,405 units – the lowest level since May 2022 – which was attributed to stricter environmental regulations and currency fluctuations, says the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).
The industrial and logistics property sector continues to outperform other segments, supported by robust demand and ongoing government backing despite prevailing uncertainties, according to property consultancy CBRE Thailand.
Phuket’s tourism recovery has surpassed pre-Covid levels, with daily flights setting a new record and visitor numbers reaching around 71,000. Provincial authorities expect arrivals to hold steady and are targeting 14 million tourists this year.
The planned new waste-management plant for Phuket is still at least two years away because of delays in receiving approval from state agencies, according to the provincial governor. Gov. Nirat Pongsitthithavorn aired his frustration over the delay in construction of the second waste incinerator,
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney heads to India this week pushing to double trade and mend fractured ties, his first stop on an Asia-Pacific tour that also includes Australia and Japan, as he seeks to reduce reliance on the United States. 
Thailand recorded 839 fire hotspots Saturday, according to satellite data from the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA), with more than half detected in forest areas. The figures, gathered by the Suomi NPP satellite using the VIIRS system, underline continued concerns over haze and PM2.5 pollution.
Police in Songkhla arrested a Thai man for beating and burning a Siberian Husky on Feb. 13. The suspect said he acted in retaliation after the dog attacked his rooster.
Thailand is Rapidly Evolving into a Pet-Friendly Nation
Senior U.S. officials have confirmed that President Donald Trump’s defeat at the U.S. Supreme Court over import tariffs will not cause trade agreements negotiated with U.S. allies to collapse. The officials were defending the administration’s aggressive trade policy.
The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) board has approved a 579,135-million-baht investment framework for fiscal year 2027, advancing three major rail projects, including double-track lines, Red Line extensions, and the Thai–Chinese high-speed railway Phase 2.
A new social media trend has gone viral as foreign tourists conclude their visits to Thailand by posting “Thank you Thailand” videos, drawing widespread attention online. The clips show visitors bowing in gratitude and sharing detailed accounts of their trips.
Pattaya’s beachfront has returned to a lively, international atmosphere as Thailand’s peak tourism season gathers pace, with large numbers of foreign visitors flocking to the city each day. A recent on-site survey by reporters found beaches and public spaces busy with overseas tourists, underscoring renewed momentum in Thailand’s tourism recovery — particularly in major destinations favored by international travelers.
Phuket has secured three major international MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions) events in 2026, reinforcing its status as a world-class meetings destination and advancing global agendas on sustainability, wellness, and diversity.
Soon enough, it appears the comfort of Thailand will be as marked up as any other run-of-the-mill overseas getaway. Price gouging and skyrocketing hotel rates are, of course, obvious reasons why tourists may be reconsidering spending the Thai baht. But the shift seems intentional.
The world’s most liveable countries tend to share a similar mix of strengths: impressive architecture, thoughtful urban planning, and cultures shaped by artistic expression. Creating a “liveable” destination is not necessarily tied directly to GDP or military power; instead, a sustained focus on design can play a meaningful role in improving quality of life.
The partial closure of Rama 2 road for four months 24 hours a day from Feb. 15 to June 15 to install beams for a new expressway is expected to have widespread impact on the traffic flow.
The Ministry of Finance is preparing a proposal for the new government to restructure the excise tax system, aiming for a 7.6% increase in revenue for fiscal year 2026, reaching 578 billion baht.
Thailand approved B33.779 billion in foreign investment from 113 investors in January, marking a 46% increase in total investment value and a 10% rise in permitted investors.
So many Chinese tourists are heading to Thailand for Lunar New Year holidays that many tour packages offered by travel agencies are completely sold out, according to Chinese media.
The Department of Medical Services (DoMS) has issued an advisory urging citizens and businesses to prepare for the upcoming summer, which is expected to be more severe than last year.
Google has unveiled a new feature allowing users to request the removal of non-consensual explicit images and sensitive personal information from search results more easily, as part of its latest privacy and safety push. 
Dusit Ajara Hua Hin expected in 2028/Thailand’s shift in population structure/100% cancer surgery success rate/1,000-baht Koh Samui bridge toll/New Mines in Thai Territory/Security Tightened in Yala/’Extinct’ No More
Thailand is facing a significant shift in population structure as the growth rate has decelerated to only 0.42%, according to the National Statistical Office. The figure represents the lowest growth rate since the census began in Thailand, according to the office’s preliminary results of the 2025 population and household census.
Thai authorities say they have found clear evidence that Cambodia secretly planted landmines inside Thai territory, describing the act as a serious violation of international humanitarian law.
Security has been raised to the highest level in Yala following a coordinated wave of seven bomb attacks in neighboring Narathiwat over the past 48 hours.
Thailand’s economy grew more than expected in the fourth quarter, supported by rising exports, a rebound in tourism, and government stimulus measures.
A proposal to increase Thailand’s value-added tax (VAT) to 10% aims to boost government revenue and enhance welfare benefits for senior citizens. The plan, reported on Saturday, suggests the higher rate could generate an additional 200–300 billion baht annually.
The Thai Restaurant Assn. has issued an urgent mandate to the incoming administration, calling for a decisive “90-day rescue plan” to prevent a widespread collapse across the hospitality sector.
Japanese restaurant numbers fall in Thailand for first time in 20 years
Over the years, many people from foreign companies ask me what they should know before doing business in Thailand. From my experience, some businesses thrive in Thailand while others struggle, and it usually comes down to a few differences I have seen time and again.
The convergence of autonomous “agentic” AI, heightened geopolitical tensions, and extreme regulatory volatility is set to redefine the global cybersecurity landscape in 2026.
In the early hours Saturday, a coordinated effort by Tourist Police and Immigration Police took place along Pattaya Beach to tackle suspected prostitution activities and enhance the city’s tourism reputation.
Elephants need space